What Will the Future of HVAC Look Like

The HVAC industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years, and statistics point to the trend carrying on into the foreseeable future. That means even your current efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment could be rendered ineffective by emerging technologies. So what developments should you expect to see in the coming years? Here's a quick look at the future of HVAC.

Use of Smarter Technologies

Many HVAC companies are automating their service processes and sales to cut costs and keep prices competitive. As a result, you can expect smart technology solutions to continue revolutionizing the industry.

Local contractors will increasingly utilize software and online tools like search engine optimization (SEO) and widgets to connect with customers. Customers are expected to switch to mobile technologies to access HVAC services; for example: setting up preventive maintenance and subscribing to service programs.

Increased Energy Efficiency

With the new government regulations being geared toward energy efficiency and environmentally friendly products, there'll be an increase in the manufacture and sales of new energy-efficient HVAC equipment. Better building-measurement technology, such as new and advanced analytics tools, will also facilitate the installation of more energy-efficient HVAC systems.

Going Ductless

Ductless HVAC systems make it possible for you to enjoy affordable heating and cooling without expensive, bulky ductwork. While ductless systems are not a new concept, they're continually being upgraded to work together with modern technology. It's no wonder that they're expected to grow in popularity and account for up to 15% of industry revenues by the end of next year.

Mechanical Ventilation with Improved Filtration

Improved ventilation systems like variable air volume (VAV) systems incorporate new technologies that deliver better energy efficiency. However, experts anticipate future system advancements that will enhance not only energy efficiency but also indoor air quality. These include the incorporation of filters with higher MERV values for use in heavily polluted areas and sensor-driven electronically commutated motors (ECM), which will take air quality and the ventilation demands of a building into account.

The future of HVAC is exciting. Keep up with the latest industry trends to take advantage of the expected improvements in efficiency and indoor air quality, as well as to comply with the evolving regulations. If you need any HVAC services or advice, contact Air Assurance, the largest full-service HVAC company in Broken Arrow.

How New Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Affect the U.S. HVAC Industry

Tariffs on the steel industry have been all over the news. One side claims they're great, the other side says they're disastrous. You don't work in the steel industry, though. Do the tariffs still affect you? Yes. For one thing, steel tariffs are causing HVAC industry changes that affect homeowners everywhere.

Examining the Tariffs

The current administration has imposed a 25 percent tariff on steel from other countries and a 10 percent tariff on aluminum. Both materials are significant elements in the manufacture of HVAC systems, from furnaces to heat pumps to air conditioners.With steel and aluminum more expensive to obtain, the cost of manufacturing HVAC equipment is going up. If the manufacturers want to make money, they'll have to raise their prices. Many already have. That not only means that purchasing an HVAC system will become more expensive, but likely having yours repaired as well. If your unit needs a replacement part made of steel, the cost will be higher.The increases in price don't just apply to steel and aluminum products, either. Some HVAC manufacturers are raising their prices on all their products, regardless of their materials, simply to compensate for the volatility of the industry and the impact it's had on them across the board.

What Can You Do?

If the steel tariffs are making life more expensive for you, you can always contact your congressperson and/or senators to let them know how you feel about the situation. Aside from that, though, the best thing to do amid these HVAC industry changes is what you've always done: shop around for the best prices and the best value.Find a system that will last you a long time. Look for one with good energy efficiency, so that the money you save on power bills can offset the extra that you're paying to buy the unit. And keep it well-maintained, to avoid needing lots of repairs and replacement parts.

To learn more about HVAC industry changes from steel tariffs and other factors, contact us at Air Assurance. We're Broken Arrow's trusted source for quality heating and cooling solutions.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.